Pastor Jim Cymbala: The Calling
Jim Cymbala
Jim Cymbala draws from his vast experience of over fifty years as senior pastor of The Brooklyn Tabernacle, a multicultural, non-denominational church in the heart of downtown Brooklyn, as he discusses important topics for the Christian church. These discussions are presented in multi-part series, including The Calling series—a vital resource for church leaders—and devotional series on different books of the Bible. Pastor Cymbala’s desire is to strengthen and encourage the body of Christ, as he points us to Jesus and to God’s Word in these uncertain times.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 11, 2022 • 10min
010 - Prayer Changes Things
A call to launch corporate prayer gatherings and why churches must move beyond lifeless routines. Scriptural examples and Paul's persistent praying are highlighted. Stories of a small prayer meeting growing into round-the-clock intercession. Real incidents show prayer bringing protection, conviction, and changed lives.
Mar 11, 2022 • 10min
009 - Is Your Church a House of Prayer
A reflection on Jesus clearing the temple and what it means for prayer in worship spaces. Examination of temple commerce and why sacred places should welcome all nations. A challenge to prioritize prayer over programming and to revive corporate prayer meetings. Stories from Acts illustrating prayer's power and the resistance it can provoke.
Mar 11, 2022 • 10min
008 - First Things First
A call to reorder ministry priorities around prayer and the Word. A look at Acts 6 as a model for roles so leaders can focus on spiritual work. A critique of entertainment-style preaching and how prayerless messages fail to change lives. Practical warnings about distractions and discipline needed for prayerful, transformative preaching.
Mar 11, 2022 • 9min
007 - What Would Jesus Say
A call for prophetic preaching that speaks directly to each congregation. Exploring how Jesus’ letters model specific, contextual words for churches. Encourages leaders to diagnose their community like a doctor before preaching. Discusses balancing systematic teaching with timely, convicting messages and living among people to hear God’s targeted words.
Mar 11, 2022 • 11min
006 - Burning Words
A plea to rediscover Bible-rooted proclamation fueled by the Holy Spirit. A challenge to pair doctrinal clarity with spiritual power rather than rely on tradition or eloquence. An exploration of Paul’s preference for Spirit-led plain truth and the idea of “burning words” that ignite hearts. A call to prepare inner life so messages become anointed and life-changing.
Mar 11, 2022 • 11min
005 - Performing or Preaching
A conversation about preaching that prioritizes Spirit-led authenticity over performance. Biblical examples are used to show simple, powerful proclamation. The tension between God-consciousness and self-consciousness is explored. Practical reminders encourage being genuine, avoiding gimmicks, and trusting the Holy Spirit for real spiritual results.
Mar 11, 2022 • 11min
004 - Sermons in the Making
A practical look at how sermons are crafted, comparing recipes to living messages. Emphasis on starting from Scripture and letting the Spirit highlight truths. Guidance on making sermons personal, focused on one clear point, and relevant to listeners' needs. Strong reminder that every message should point to Jesus.
Mar 11, 2022 • 11min
003 - Living in the Word
A call to center ministry on Scripture and resist sermonizing personal opinions. A look at Scripture's timeless authority and the danger of new gospels. Practical urgings to live in the Word daily and feed yourself spiritually, not just hunt for sermon material. Personal stories about how meditation on the Bible rebuilt faith during hardship.
6 snips
Mar 11, 2022 • 10min
002 - With Jesus Everyday
A call to prioritize daily fellowship with Jesus over organizational busyness. A look at Mark 3 and why being with Jesus comes before ministry activity. Warnings about CEO-style leadership that crowds out spiritual life. Personal struggles to maintain the habit of walking with Christ and why leaders must model that fellowship.
Mar 11, 2022 • 11min
001 - Chosen by God
Your calling as a church leader
